Bodegas Vinessens El Vivero de Usaldón
Alicante DOP, Spain

Natural wine is a tricky thing — and can quickly turn into a natural disaster; in both the bottle and the glass. When properly made, transported, and stored, natural wine can be magnificent — El Vivero de Usaldón Garnacha from Bodegas Vinessens is a perfect example.

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Vilano “Black” Roble 2018 Ribera del Dureo, Spain

“Let me count the ways in which this wine is black: in its spark of black rocky soil, in the darkness of its blueberry-skin tannins, in the layers of anise, blackberry and black cherry… It’s tight and as spicy as chorizo, which it would accompany well.” Joshua Greene, Wine&Spirits Magazine 2019

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2014 Bodegas Vilano – Tempranillo Ribera del Duero, Spain

This wine is always well rated, and I this review from the Spectator hits it spot on:
90 Points: Wine Spectator Sep 30, 2017
“This lively red delivers black cherry and licorice flavors, with smoky and leafy notes. Fresh and focused, in a balanced structure that is energetic and graceful. Made in a clean, modern style. Drink now through 2024. 8,850 cases made.” (90 pts.)

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Bodegas Arráez Canallas Tinto D.O.Valencia, Spain

Canallas Tinto is sourced from vines grown on the clay and calcareous soils of La Font de la Figuera, at an altitude of 2000 feet above sea level on the outskirts of Valencia. American oak barrel aging for 4 months provides a roundness seldom found in such an inexpensive wine, and their high percentage of used barrels ensures the vibrant freshness that I love in this wine.

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